WBFO News [WBFO 88.7, Radio in Buffalo, NY], February 12, 2007, Monday
WBFO News [WBFO 88.7, Radio in Buffalo, NY]
http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wbfo/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1038962
Study says Child Care is a Big Part of Buffalo's Economy
BUFFALO, NY (2007-02-12) A new, local study finds that child care is an important part of Buffalo's economy. The Cornell study, Buffalo Child Care Means Business, examines the strong need for quality child care in the city.
The study found that women make up more than half of the city's workforce in downtown Buffalo.
The Cornell study was a collaborative effort. Cornell formed a coalition with UB's law school, the Child Care Resource Network and United Way's Success by Six program.
Lou Jean Fleron with Cornell's School of Industrial Labor Relations in Buffalo is the Director of Workforce Industry & Economic Development. Fleron say she was surprised to learn that so many women are working in the city.
Initially the study started as an inquiry for the need for more quality child care near the Buffalo Medical Corridor. Dr. Valerie Cooley is director of the Child Care Resource Network. She says was also surprised to learn that so many women make up the workforce. Dr. Cooley says that could also be key in helping children perform well when the entered school.
The coalition hopes to develop an employers guide and speakers bureau to educate the community about the need for quality child care. They want employees to learn about about tax credits and flexible spending to help pay for care. The coalition also plans to talk directly with businesses directly to make sure they are aware of the effects a lack of child care has on its workforce and how it can better help employees.
Those involved with the study says they must raise awareness that quality child care is a key economic factor in building a strong Buffalo.
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